Alistair Thorpe
Gisborne’s surf lifesaving clubs, particularly Waikanae, High School Old Boys rugby and the business fraternity have been shocked at the sudden death of Alistair Thorpe.
He died on Sunday, December 31, at the age of 69.
Mr Thorpe was managing director of Columbine Hosiery in Disraeli Street and became a director of the family business in the early 1990s.
He was active in the surf lifesaving movement for just over 50 years, receiving his 50-year badge from SLSNZ in 2022.
His club Kaiaponi Farms Waikanae have posted a tribute to him on social media.
“Our thoughts are with Alistair’s whānau, and the extended Thorpe family,” the post said.
Mr Thorpe gained his surf lifeguard award in 1972 at Waikanae.
“He remained a loyal and proud Waikanae man throughout. His only stint away was a single season at Lyall Bay SLSC in 1975/76.
“Ali was awarded a Gisborne Service Award in 1988, and Gisborne Life Membership in 1992.
“His SLSNZ Service and Distinguished Service Awards were presented in 2013.
“He waited until 2021 before accepting a Waikanae Club Service Award.”
After a good 10-year period as a lifeguard and competitor, Alistair began his officiating career.
“He is well known and will be remembered as a level head on the beach, a problem solver and mentor to other officials,” the club post said.
He was a member of the SLSNZ Surf Officials Advisory Committee 2010 - 2012 and was chair in 2013.
At club level he stepped down as president of Waikanae late last year, having held the role since 2018.
“Recently he has been a leading light in the Waikanae SLSC ‘Brains Trust’, a group of mature members who meet regularly to use the club’s gym, have coffee and solve the problems of the world.”
Online tributes to him have flowed in.
From a senior Waikanae member: “Really sad and such a loss. Ali was a massive contributor to our club, our district and nationally. He was also a driving force in keeping my dad and some our older members at the club each week able to enjoy their lifelong friendships. He will be greatly missed.”
“This is so heartbreaking. He was such a kind, funny and generous man,” said another post.
“Really saddened to hear of Ali’s passing. Thoughts and condolences go out to family and friends. He was a huge part of the success of Eastern Regional and National SLSNZ events. A rock you could always rely on to do everything he could in the best interest of the sport and for the athletes. Be at peace my friend,” said a former SLSNZ representative.
“Rest easy Mr Thorpe. Another legend who gave truckloads of his time for the cause (life saving).Thank you good Sir. Much love to the family.”
From one of his employees at Columbine, “Rest in peace to the family. Mr Thorpe was my good and hard-working boss. We will miss you boss.”
And from the other Gisborne surf clubs: “Such a loss to so many. One of the best! Much respect from the Midway crew.”
“Sad we lose a bloody good man. I will miss you on the beach mate, and all of us at Wainui SLSC will miss you as chief of our carnivals. RIP Ali.”
Mr Thorpe was an active rugby player in his younger years, playing for the High School Old Boys Club.
He was also involved in the Poverty Bay Rugby Referees Association.
He will be farewelled in a service at Evans Funeral Services on Saturday, starting at 1pm.